How to Use the Rolled Hem Foot

How to Use the Rolled Hem Foot

Tired of the tedious process of turning up and pressing hems multiple times before sewing? Say goodbye to that hassle and learn how to use the rolled hem foot!

What You'll Need:

• Rolled Hem Foot (5mm or any size you have)
  • SINGER® Rolled Hem Presser Foot
  • HUSQVARNA® VIKING® 3 mm Shell Rolled Hem Foot
  • PFAFF® Roller Foot
     
• Fabric (a jelly roll strip is perfect for practice)

Steps to Prepare:

1. Attach the Rolled Hem Foot: Snap the foot onto your machine.
2. Fold the Fabric: Fold up the edge of the fabric about ¼", then fold it up again ¼". Use your fingers to press it in place, and clip if needed.
3. Position the Fabric: Place the folded fabric under the presser foot with the right side down, and lower the needle to hold it in place.
4. Start Sewing: Lower the presser foot and take 3-4 stitches to begin.

Using the Rolled Hem Foot:

1. Guide the Fabric: Gently feed the folded fabric into the metal swirl of the rolled hem foot. You may need to pull it up slightly to get it started.
2. Let the Foot Work: Once the fabric is in the swirl, the foot will do the rolling for you! Just guide the fabric and make sure enough is fed into the swirl for a double fold.
3. Continue Sewing: After a few stitches, the fabric should be properly seated in the foot. Don’t worry if it’s not perfect at first—it will still look great on the right side!
4. Keep a Steady Pace: Start slowly, watching how much fabric goes into the swirl. Keep it even for a beautiful rolled hem.

Finishing:

1. End the Hem: As you approach the end of the fabric (about an inch or less from the original stitching), raise the presser foot and gently pull the fabric out of the swirl.
2. Secure the Stitching: Hold the fabric taut and sew over the beginning stitches by 3-4 stitches to secure the hem.
3. Press: Once finished, press your hem for a clean, professional look.

Tips for Success:

• Sewing Over Seams: Seams can pass through the rolled hem foot. Use a stiletto to guide thicker seams, or trim them down to reduce bulk.
• Foot Size Matters: Rolled hem feet come in different sizes. For thicker fabrics, use a larger foot. Ask your dealer for advice on the right size for your project.
• Let the Foot Do the Work: Avoid folding the fabric as it feeds through the foot—this can pull it out of the swirl. Just guide the fabric gently!

Now you're ready to create perfect hems with ease!